1994 Ernest & Julio Gallo Sonoma Frei Ranch Vineyard Zinfandel

E & J Gallo, based in Modesto, is one of California’s historic wine producers. Brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo were selling grapes from the family vineyards when prohibition ended, and in 1933 they decided to start making wine. They taught themselves winemaking from library books and were soon selling large amounts of bulk wines. By the 1990s E & J Gallo had 25% of the American wine market and today the company is a major exporter of American wines. It makes, markets and distributes wine under more than 60 labels, including Andre sparkling wine, Carlo Rossi and Barefoot Wines. However in 1977 the family also decided to make premium wines, and the Gallo Family Vineyards label produces a large portfolio of red, white and rose wines. E & J Gallo remains in the ownership of the Gallo family.

Zinfandel is a black-skinned grape, but 85% of the wine produced is made into a rosy “White Zinfandel.” Red Zin is far more complex and bold, while still being light-bodied. It grows in popularity as winemakers continue to experiment with new styles and blends.